In less than two years of his presidency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has had three major federal projects named after him, generating mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Tinubu, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, is only months away from completing his second year in office. However, critics argue that naming public infrastructure after a sitting president so early in their tenure may be unnecessary and premature.
1. Bola Tinubu Military Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja
On Thursday, Tinubu inaugurated a multibillion-naira military barracks in Asokoro, Abuja. The facility, built to address accommodation challenges for soldiers and officers, includes 444 apartments for soldiers and 170 units for officers. Despite its functional importance, the decision to name the barracks after the president has sparked debate.
2. Bola Tinubu Technology Centre, Abuja
In November 2024, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) unveiled a state-of-the-art technology centre in Abuja designed to improve passport issuance, border surveillance, and data management. The facility, which features a data centre, command and control hub, and an ECOWAS biometrics centre, was named in Tinubu’s honour. According to Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the gesture was a tribute to the president’s leadership in facilitating the project.
3. Bola Tinubu Polytechnic, Abuja
On January 9, 2025, Education Minister Tunji Alausa announced the establishment of a new polytechnic in Abuja, which will also bear Tinubu’s name. The institution is yet to be constructed.
These decisions to name federal projects after President Tinubu have divided public opinion. While supporters consider it a recognition of his leadership and contributions to governance, critics view it as premature and a form of self-glorification.
